RFS Women in Leadership event at Windsor Castle

Last month, at Windsor Castle, we celebrated the conclusion of our Women into Leadership programme.

Funded by the Office for Veterans’ Affairs and awarded to us by the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust, this programme supported 30 women veterans in achieving their ILM Level 3 qualification in Coaching and Mentoring, along with valuable professional development.

Hearing the stories of these remarkable women is a powerful reminder of why we do what we do. At RFS, we are committed to designing programmes that address hidden needs and deliver meaningful impact to our community.

This programme would not have been possible without the generous support of: BAE Systems – for their continued backing of our Coaching and Mentoring programmes; and QinetiQ – for their commitment to professional development opportunities.

As an added privilege, we were honoured to attend the Sung Requiem at the College of St George - a deeply moving and memorable moment.

This programme is a true example of social impact in action. If your organisation is exploring ways to support our Armed Forces community, we invite you to consider sponsoring future programmes like this one.

Testimonial:

"The programme has been a transformative experience, significantly enhancing my leadership capabilities, confidence, and strategic thinking.

The qualification and workshops provided a strong foundation of knowledge and practical tools, which I’ve been able to apply directly in my professional setting.

The coaching element was especially valuable in supporting my development in my current role. It gave me the space to reflect on my leadership approach, navigate real-time challenges, and develop greater clarity and confidence in decision-making. I’ve noticed a marked improvement in how I lead my team, manage complexity, and communicate more effectively.

The programme has also provided me with a mentor, and I’m looking forward to starting that journey. I see it as a valuable opportunity to continue growing, gain fresh perspectives, and explore new approaches to leadership with someone more experienced.

A standout moment was the Windsor event, where I had the privilege of contributing as a panellist. It was an enriching experience that allowed me to share my journey, connect with others, and be inspired by the collective energy and insights of fellow participants.Overall, the programme has reconnected me with my values and sense of purpose. It has left me better equipped to lead with authenticity, resilience, and impact in my current role and beyond."